5 Reasons You Should Have an Unplugged Ceremony

WONDERING IF AN UNPLUGGED CEREMONY IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR BIG DAY?

Well, you're in the perfect place. And we believe it's fate that brought you here. Seriously, the Pinterest wedding board angels are watching out for you.

Brides, grooms, aunts, cousins, bridesmaids - If there's one wedding tip we would shout from the highest of rooftops if we could, it's this one. Please, for the love of all that is lovely, consider an unplugged ceremony.

There are so many details to sort out leading up to your wedding day, and we know it can be extremely overwhelming. You feel all of this pressure to be sure everything is perfect. I mean, this is the day you've always dreamed of! Let's be real, your childhood dolls are probably still recovering from all of those pretend weddings you put them through. But hopefully, with the help of a few family members and friends (and a couple of caring photographers *wink*), you'll feel the tension lighten up tremendously as the days draw closer.

So, just go ahead and consider this another question answered on your pretty "bride to be" calligraphed notepad. You can thank us later.

Continue reading below for our top 5 reasons why an unplugged ceremony is undoubtedly the best way to go!

"You will find, as you look back upon your life, that the moments

when you have truly lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love."

Henry Drummond

1. YOU'VE INVESTED IN A PROFESSIONAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER.

Remember those countless hours you spent finding the perfect photographer that fits your style, budget, personality, etc.? Or perhaps, this is your current situation. You want to find someone that understands your needs, and is equally invested in the success of your day while capturing it well. Once you have found that person, their camera should be the only camera you need in operation during your ceremony. We invest incredible amounts of money and time into being sure we are well equipped for the duration of your special day. Put your trust in the hands of the professional that you've hired, and the photos you've already invested in - not your uncle with the newest iPhone.

2. YOUR PRICELESS CAPTURED MEMORIES WON'T BE AT RISK OF BEING RUINED.

Let us be real for a second. We can look back and remember probably dozens of wedding galleries we've delivered that have included shots from the ceremony that were completely ruined by a cell phone or an iPad (yup, because those people exist) trying to get the same shot. And as a photographer and recent bride myself, that just hurts my heart. But we have to include them in your finished gallery because there was only ONE CHANCE to capture that memory, but sadly, the quality of the photo was compromised by Aunt Susie's tablet (all tea - no shade, Aunt Susie).

Bottom line - No one wants to look back at their wedding memories and see a picture of the bride walking down the aisle with cell phones shoved right in front of her face. Or a great exit shot bombarded with electronics alongside of the happy couple. Many times we've even been blocked by a cell phone right before a moment is about to happen. Nothing is more frustrating to a wedding photographer than competing with a cell phone camera to get a good angle. To be honest, most experienced photographers cringe at the thought of shooting a ceremony that is not unplugged for these reasons. We're not being selfish, we're simply doing our job. You're paying us to capture your first kiss, ring exchange, vows, exit, in the best way possible - please allow us to do our job.

3. YOU CAN'T EXPECT EVERYONE TO KEEP PHOTOS TO THEMSELVES.

Most brides are going to be spending hours getting ready on her big day. Not to mention the time spent finding the perfect dress, accessories, and florals to complete her look. To many, that is a sacred image that should only be shared among the guests at the ceremony, until the couple is comfortable to share with everyone else. You want to be sure that your unique beauty is displayed in a quality photo, at your discretion.

However, some guests may not be aware of the proper etiquette when it comes to sharing. We all know those people that enjoy displaying everything on the internet, and more than likely, you'll have some attending your wedding. Unless you don't mind everyone sharing around a pixelated version of your ceremony posted on social media or texted to a group of coworkers, consider requesting your guests to refrain from using their electronics. Besides, no one else in the room knows how to capture your love better than your experienced photographer.

4. YOU WANT YOUR GUESTS TO BE PRESENT IN THE MOMENT.

For just a moment, imagine about standing in front of your love during your long-awaited ceremony. What do you wish to see when you look out into the crowd? Everyone smiling, happy tears being wiped away, genuine emotion on your friends' and family's faces. That's what every one dreams of! You've carefully selected those people you want to witness your ceremony in person. You've spent so much time and energy sending out invites, organizing a seating chart, and planning the decor of your dreams. It would be such a shame if those people weren't actually present in the most important moment of your life. Far too often, they're busy looking down at their electronics or watching the whole event through a camera lens instead of actually soaking in the beauty of the moment. In hindsight, your guests will enjoy themselves more without being distracted anyways.

5. THIS IS YOUR DAY. EVERYONE WILL UNDERSTAND.

Ever heard the phrase, "if they love you, they'll understand."? This is exactly where we're coming from here. Your family and friends are more than likely just unaware that their use of electronics could ruin professional shots for you. From the perspective of someone that's not familiar with modern wedding ceremonies, an unplugged ceremony is pretty taboo. Of course, take out your phone, and snap a quick picture of the beautiful bride. Why not, right? Well, in that moment, they're unknowingly doing more than just "snapping a pic". This lack of knowledge results in more damage than they intended. That's why it's so important to consider making your preferences regarding the use of electronics a known detail of your ceremony. Continue reading for tips on how to approach this gracefully.

If your guests were made aware of the damage that could be done by using their phones and how you wish to have them present in the moment with you as a cherished loved-one, they would completely understand. We all know that they would gladly leave their phones in the car or inside their bags (on silent) in an effort to honor your wishes. And then one day, you'll be able to share your amazing professional photos with them, and look back on the memories together. You'll have the opportunity to relive those intimate moments that you've prepared your whole life for, because they were just too damn good to only experience once.

HOW TO APPROACH AN UNPLUGGED CEREMONY:

You didn't think we would leave you hanging, did you?

1. Have your officiant make an announcement. We highly recommend making sure this is mentioned before the ceremony begins. Allow yourself time to write up an example of what you'd like them to say. Or, in some cases, they'll already understand how to announce an unplugged ceremony. Just be sure you go over that clearly with them prior to your big day. Communication is key.

2. Display a sign for guests to view prior to entering the ceremony. The sign should read something similar to, "The couple wishes to have an unplugged ceremony. We have professional photographers to capture every moment. Please leave your devices turned off until we are announced as Mr & Mrs". You get the idea.

While having one or the other helps tremendously in informing your guests, both of these tips used together will be your most effective way to approach a successful unplugged ceremony!

We sincerely hope this has helped you better understand the purpose of unplugged ceremonies, and why they're growing in popularity amongst the wedding industry. Now, go on your way and live your love story, babe!